Why does God allow bad things to happen to good people? This is a question often heard when we observe people who are suffering hardships seemingly through no fault of their own. While we may not understand the reasons we or other people have so many difficulties in their lives, despite trying to do what is right, God does.

Trials strengthen us

Just like in school with lessons, homework and tests, life gives us opportunities to not only learn, but to be tested. Our parents and others have taught us by word and example the basics of life. We get to practice those principles, and then, yes, be tested on them through trials. It is during these tests that we can see how well we have learned, deepen our knowledge in that area and improve other aspects in our life.

God uses trials to shape us. He wants us to rely on him

A leader in a worldwide women's organization, Linda Reeves, stated, "...the Lord allows us to be tried and tested, sometimes to our maximum capacity. We have seen the lives of loved ones — and maybe our own — figuratively burned to the ground and have wondered why a loving and caring Heavenly Father would allow such things to happen. But He does not leave us in the ashes; He stands with open arms, eagerly inviting us to come to Him. He is building our lives into magnificent temples where His Spirit can dwell eternally." God allows trials in our lives to help us become who he knows we already can be.

We are not alone in our struggles — God is always with us

He wants us to draw closer to him and to use his atonement. "...the Lord has a plan for each of our lives. Nothing that happens is a shock or a surprise to Him. He is all-knowing and all-loving. He is eager to help us, to comfort us, and to ease our pain as we rely on the power of the Atonement... The trials and tribulation that we experience may be the very things that guide us to come unto Him ... so that we might return to His presence and receive all that the Father hath," Reeves assures.

Tribulation is not necessarily related to bad choices

Though sometimes we suffer consequences for wrong choices, hardships in our life are often not our fault. Death, job loss, wayward children, financial struggles and other trials happen to individuals and families regardless of how righteous they are or are not. We may not have the answers as to why certain events happen, but in time, we may look back and see a better view. Most of us can reflect on past events in our life and see what we learned, how we relied on God and how it helped shape our life for the better.

The next time we are tempted to ask God, "Why me?" consider thanking him instead for the opportunity to improve yourself and to master new skills. It may not always be easy to graciously accept difficulties, but the opposition brings new growth and beauty to our lives.